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Anka Property Group has unveiled its latest $200 million residential development, Union Balmain, in the Sydney suburb of Rozelle. 
Anka has joined forces with architects Turner Studio and interior designers SJB with plans to deliver a five-star, green star development, in the hopes of minimising its carbon footprint.
<a href="https://unionbalmain.com.au/" target="_blank">Located at 120 Terry Street</a>, the 202 apartments will comprise one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/balmain1_0002_UNION_Terry_St_2_RT.jpg.jpg" width="470" height="470" alt="balmain1_0002_UNION_Terry_St_2_RT.jpg">
One-bedroom apartments range in size from 58 square metres to 113 square metres and having a starting price of $625,000.
Two-bedroom apartments range in size from 86 square metres to 147 square metres and start from $860,000.
Three-bedroom apartments range in size from 115 to 249 square metres and range in price from $1,095,000 to $2 million.
The three-building, six-storey complex will feature a residents-only rooftop park with a communal vegetable garden and BBQ areas.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/balmain1_0000_UNION_304_Kitchen.jpg.jpg" width="470" height="470" alt="balmain1_0000_UNION_304_Kitchen.jpg">
Collaborating with landscaper Aspect Landscaping, Union <a href="/news">Balmain</a> will also feature a ground level park.
The ground level will also host a mix of retail space and cafes.
The 1.38-hectare site was purchased in 2009 for $13 million.
Construction on the development is due to commence in mid-2013 and has an estimated completion date of early 2015.
 
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Anka unveils $200 million development Union Balmain

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One of the most influential architects in Sydney, Koichi Takada, is transforming the city's apartment scene with his love of nature and culture.
Founded in 2008, <a href="https://koichitakada.com/" target="_blank">Koichi Takada Architects</a> has an array of projects under its belt. A key theme for Takada is to reintroduce nature to cities.
“We continually see the destruction of the natural environment, and more and more we see the potential in architecture to become a platform to rectify this,” Takada says.
Koichi Takada was appointed to design a penthouse in the Victoria Park residential estate Apex, four-kilometres from the Sydney CBD.
Developed by Payce, <a href="https://www.apexliving.com.au/team" target="_blank">Apex</a> offers 153 one-, two- and three bedroom apartments – some of which are two-storeys.
The three-bedroom Takada-designed penthouse set a new price record of $1.3 million for Victoria Park.
The 142-square-metre apartment boasts full-height glass doors and windows, offering the apartment all day sunlight.
The designer kitchen is equipped with Miele appliances and solid stone bench tops and mirrored splashbacks.
Residents of APEX have use of a 400-square metre rooftop garden terrace equipped with an outdoor cinema.
The sale by Martin Property Zetland means all 153 apartments in APEX have been sold.
“The escape to a beautiful waterfront, a park or a garden, and away from the concrete jungle becomes an important retreat in people’s routines,” says Takada.
Koichi Takada blends the traditions of his homeland Japan with today’s flowing forms – an approach he developed in New York, London and Tokyo.
He has won an international property council award and his projects have been featured in magazines such as Vogue living, Bell and Inside.
Takada has also been appointed to design apartment interiors for the new and final apartment development at Victoria Park, Platinum.
Takada will use three schemes, including Pearl – inspired by the Whitsundays – Sahara – inspired by the colours of Morocco and Ebony – inspired by the jet-black remnants of Hawaii’s volcano’s.
“The colours, textures and contrasts take you to an out-of-world place, an escape as enticing and beautiful as a fashion label,” says Takada.
“Silver, bronze and grey mirrored surfaces provide a wow factor worthy of the brand Platinum.”
 
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Platinum will comprise five buildings, ranging from six to 15 storeys.
One of the buildings reflects the colours of the park opposite it, while another is inspired by the sunset.
Another building is inlaid with golden jewels and topped with a penthouse crown.
Located on Hutchison Walk, 90% of the apartments at Platinum have leafy vistas.
Only four apartments out of 322 are still available for purchase.
Takada has also designed two, two-bedroom apartments within the new development <a href="https://www.centralparksydney.com" target="_blank">One Central Park</a> (pictured below) in Sydney’s Broadway. Koichi Takada set about creating a homely feel in the east tower of One Central Park the project at Broadway in Sydney by Frasers Property inpartnership with Sekesui House.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/takadaapril3one.jpg" width="470" height="305" alt="takadaapril3one">
Due for completion in 2013, Koichi Takada’s ‘raw organics’ apartments boast a mixture of hammered stone, linen and woven grasses.
Jean Nouvel and PTW Architects have designed the building’s façade with a collection of vertical gardens, reminding us that nature can thrive in the city.
Koichi Takada’s other projects include Canberra Wave Gardens, Sails at Revy Darling Island, St Margarets in <a href="/news">Surry Hills</a> and the Silhouette House at Northern Beaches.
Sky by Crown is another upcoming by Koichi Takada. Its a North Sydney residential highrise set for 2013 marketing.
The Crown Group recently finalised the purchase of the Pacific Highway North Sydney site for $26 million with plans to build a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/project-sky+by+crown+-nsw-north+sydney-600001239" target="_blank">19-level apartment tower</a>.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/project-skye+by+crown+-nsw-north+sydney-600001239" target="_blank">The 211-223 Pacific Highway site is set to have 230 apartments</a>.
Work on the tower could start mid 2013 if approvals are granted for the plan which comes with a spectacular infinity edge pool inspired by the vast “floating garden” pool in Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands Resort.
In early 2012 North Sydney Council resolved to forward a planning proposal for the site to the Department of Planning seeking a gateway determination.
The group currently has $2.5 billion worth of projects in the pipeline.
For more on the allure of Australian property to Asian buyers, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-allure-for-asian-residential-property-investment" target="_blank">download our free eBook. </a>The eBook is also available for<a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/australias-allure-for-asian-residential-property-investment-free-ebook" target="_blank"> free download in Chinese.</a>
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Influential architect Koichi Takada transforming Sydney apartment scene

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The first group of baby boomers has turned 65 and as many prepare for retirement by downsizing they will to push up demand for apartments, says John McGrath.
He quotes Australian Bureau of Statistics figures showing there were 249,800 people aged 65 on June 30 2012 – an increase of 37,500 compared to 12 months earlier.
 A baby boomer is a person who was worn during the post-World War 2 "baby boom" period between 1946 and 1964.
McGrath, chief executive of McGrath Real Estate Agents, writes in a blog for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.switzer.com.au/the-experts/john-mcgrath-property-expert/first-baby-boomers-turn-65/">Switzer.com.au</a> retirees will generally want to downsize their living arrangements and many will look to buy an apartment.
Apartments are appealing because they’re smaller, they don’t have any gardens to maintain and they’re usually located around shopping, dinner and entertainment precincts, he says.
McGrath says that those downsizing in Sydney are moving to suburbs that are close to the action, such as <a href="/news">Pyrmont</a> in the inner city and <a href="/news">Kirribilli</a> across the water.
Retirees are also likely to seek apartments due to the security factor.
McGrath says they will want a place they can lock up and leave if they want to travel for a while.
Those that don't choose to live close to the city, may consider lifestyle options such as the Blue Mountains and <a href="/news">Bowral</a>, which offer close commuter access.
McGrath says downsizers are also relocating to <a href="/news">Port Macquarie</a>, however apartments are scarce in regional areas so these buyers are looking for character cottages.
McGrath says he expects to see a resurgence in the prestige apartment market once the global economic outlook improves, but until then, many downsizers will be looking at more modest apartments and townhouses for the next phase of their lives.
“Investors should take note of these trends, older Australians are set to become a major force in our property market in the years to come,” McGrath says.
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Retiring baby boomers likely to push up demand for apartments: John McGrath

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The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-malvern-500617179" target="_blank">225-square-metre corner retail building</a> that currently houses the chef's hat awarded Livingroom Restaurant in Malvern is on the market for around $1.5 million. 
Located at 12 to 18 Claremont Avenue, the building originally comprised of four retail shops that were combined to create an expansive space.
The building has an annual return of $76,350, which offers a potential rental yield of 5.09%.
Boasting two extensive street frontages and a rear laneway access, Livingroom was awarded a chef’s hat in last years Good Food Guide.
Colliers International has appointed Jeremy Gruzewski and Ben Baines to coordinate the sale.
“With approximately six years operation from this locaton, Livingroom is frequently featured among the best restaurants in metropolitan Melbourne with a large and loyal following of customers," says Gruzewski.
“This represents an exceptional passive investment opportunity with a secure tenant, with the locational benefits of being in one of Melbourne’s most desirable suburbs.”
The Livingroom currently has three years left on its lease and the property is being sold as one title.
 Baines says any future subdivision plans are subject to approval.
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Malvern's Livingroom restaurant premises listed with 5% yield potential

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Dwelling values across Australia's capital city markets rose 2.8% over the March quarter, the strongest result seen since March 2010, according to the RP Data-Rismark March Hedonic Home Value Index Results.
Values were up a strong 1.3% over March.
Every capital city recorded a rise in dwelling values over the month apart from Adelaide, which remained steady over March.
Perth recorded the highest level of growth over the month of March, with dwelling values increasing 3.4% to a median price of $479,000.
However Hobart was the best performing capital city over the quarter with an increase of 6.1% to $332,500 following a 2.5% increase over March.
It still remains the nation’s most affordable capital city market in terms of dwelling values.
Melbourne recorded a 2.5% rise in dwelling values over the quarter and a 0.8% rise over March with a median dwelling price of $475,000.
Sydney recorded a 3.4% rise over the quarter and a 1.5% rise over March and remains the most expensive capital city market, with a median dwelling price of $550,500.
The weakest property market was Adelaide, with values unchanged over March, and down 0.5% over the March quarter.
Adelaide is the only capital city to record a fall in values for the first three months of the year.
 
Year-on-year, the report shows that Darwin has experienced the greatest rise in value of 7.3%.
“The March 2013 result is one of the strongest we’ve seen over the three years since March 2010,” says Rismark International CEO Ben Skilbeck.
“Further, it was the strongest quarterly growth seen since the three month period ending May 2012,” says Skilbeck.
“Since the capital city housing market bottomed out at the end of May last year, we have seen dwelling values rise by 4.7% after falling by 7.4% from their market peak back in late 2010,” says RP Data research Director Tim Lawless.
Lawless says the most significant recoveries have been recorded across Darwin where values have risen 13.9% since bottoming out in January last year, and Perth where values are up 9.4% since November 2011.
“Both cities are recording rental growth higher than 10% year on year which is providing a significantly higher total return compared with other cities,” says Lawless.
According to the index - which factors in the gross yield as well as capital gains – Darwin is recording a year on year gross return of 13.9% and Perth is recording a total gross return of 10.6%.
“Both are significantly higher than the combined capitals average of 6.9% gross,” says Lawless.
The middle priced housing sector is continuing to show the healthiest market fundamentals.
Rismark’s Ben Skilbeck says the investor segment of the housing market is showing greater responsiveness to the low interest rate environment than the owner occupied segment.
“The gross capital city unit rental yields now at 4.9%, and a number of short term fixed rate loans also being offered at these levels, it’s not surprising to see investors responding to these conditions more quickly than owner occupiers,” says Skilbeck.
The report suggests that there are many indications that the housing market recovery will continue.
“Auction clearance rates haven’t been below 55% on any occasion so far this year, and over recent weeks the capital city weighted average clearance rate has been around the 60% mark with Melbourne and Sydney nudging the 70 mark,” says Lawless.
“RP Data’s Mortgage Index, which tracks activity across the RP Data mortgage platforms, reached levels not seen since August 2009, suggesting housing finance commitments are likely to show a decent lift when the ABS publishes the data for February and March later this year,” Lawless says.
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Capital city dwelling values record highest quarterly rise in three years: RP Data

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Around $3.5 billion of commercial property priced over $5 million changed hands over the first quarter of the year with A-REITs returning to the market, according to CBRE.
This is a 15% increase compared to the same time last year.
CBRE’s head of research for Australia, Stephen McNabb, says the data signals a healthy start to the calendar year.
Domestic investors were prominent over the quarter with the the level of domestic buying 33% higher in the first quarter  of 2013 when compared with  the March 2012 quarter.
However, foreign purchaser activity was down 31% for the quarter.
CBRE national director of capital markets Josh Cullen says the re-emergence of the domestic REIT’s seeking core investments across all property sectors was a positive sign for 2013. 
“In the past week alone we have received in excess of $4.5 billion worth of offers with the closure of sales campaigns for Raine Square in Perth and the GE Core portfolio,” says Cullen. 
“The local REIT’s are well positioned with both balance sheet and wholesale capacity to take advantage of quality offerings in the market place. Leveraging has reduced to around 26% from a peak of circa 40%, which would imply funding capacity of $6 billion if leverage moved back to a still conservative level of around 32%.”
A-REIT acquisitions are up by $1.4 billion over the year to March 27, 2013 compared to the previous year.  
A-REITs  have become net purchasers over the period.
Assuming 10% of the current $30 billion in super fund cash allocations was also directed to domestic property, CBRE estimates that some $3 billion in A-REIT and superannuation money could find its way into the property market. 
However, Cullen says one issue was the lack of quality stock openly available and this was expected to result in cap rate compression for core assets.
Around $14.3 billion in commercial sales have been reported for the 12 months to March 27,  a 1% increase compared with the $14.2 billion recorded in the year to March 2012.
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Commercial property sales up 15% in first three months of the year with A-REITS returning: CBRE

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Perth's median house price reached a record high of $510,000 in the March quarter, according to data by the Real Estate Institute of Western Australian (REIWA).
The previous peak was $505,000 in the March quarter of 2010.
This is a 2% increase on the median price from the December quarter. 
Homes selling for $600,000 to $700,000 and those between $800,000 and $1 million represented around 20% of all sales during the quarter.
“Our preliminary data for the March quarter show that while the proportion of sales under $500,000 has fallen, there was a marked increase in sales between $500,000 and $1 million,” says REIWA president David Airey.
“The $600,000 to $700,000 range was the most dominant price point above the median during this period and a healthy illustration of consumer confidence through trade-up activity,” says Airey.
The $400,000 to $450,000 price point represented 12% of all sales for the first quarter, according to the REIWA.
“Sales in this price range are turning over very quickly and the office of state revenue reports that in February the median purchase price for first home buyers was $425,000,” says Airey.
Flats, units, apartments and villas recorded a 10% rise in sales during the March quarter.
Suburbs closer to the CBD experienced stronger sales during the quarter including the suburbs of Bayswater, Belmont, Bassendean, South Perth, Victoria Park and the coastal strip in the City of Stirling.
“These areas are all over the general median price and as such contributed to the overall lift in the market median,” says Airey.
Increased sales activity was also recorded in the more traditional first homebuyer areas, including the southeast corridor in the cities of Gosnells and Armdale.
Land sales were up 10% over the quarter and the volume of land for sale remained stable.
“The March quarter results show a buoyant market returning to more normal conditions on the back of solid population growth and a strong state economy,” says Airey.
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Perth median house price rises to new peak of $510,000: REIWA

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The $70 million residential development  Imperial Doncaster is pushing creativity boundaries and integrating modern sound technologies to make clutter-free homes.
Imperial is a <a href="https://imperialdoncaster.com.au/" target="_blank">96-apartment complex</a> with one, two and three-bedroom apartments being developed by AXF Property.
Located on Sovereign Point Court, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/chinese-developer-asx-property-selling-imperial-the-crown-of-doncaster/2013011058726">Imperial</a> will be 10 storeys high, built to a design by the Buchan Group of architects and positioned directly across from Westfield Doncaster.
<img alt="imperialapril2one" height="297" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/imperialapril2one.jpg">
AXF will integrate each apartment with Push Controls, Sonos and Spotify technology – a first of its kind.
The music streaming system will be known as Imperial PLAY with each resident receiving a free iPad mini to use as their main music controller.
<img alt="imperialapril2two" height="290" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/imperialapril2two.jpg">
Collaborating with Push Controls, the iPad mini will be used to switch off or to dim lights, listen to music, flick between a DVD or change TV channels, all in all, a universal remote.
“It’s the first time Push Controls has integrated their technology into every apartment in a project as standard, as is the case for Sonos and Spotify,” says Scott Jessop Sales and Marketing Manager of AXF Property.
Also included in each apartment will be a Sonos Playbar and a Sonos Play:3.
 
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A Sonos Playbar offers full-theatre sound through nine speakers and can wirelessly stream music as well as be connected to the television.
Sonos Play:3 is a powered speaker unit that streams music wirelessly from local sources, including an itunes library and online services such as a Spotfiy. 
The two speakers will offer the choice of a second audio zone, allowing the second zone to play different music and at a different volume to the other audio zone.
<img alt="imperialapril2three" height="288" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/imperialapril2three.jpg">
Residents will also receive a free one-year subscription to Spotify - an online streaming service with access to more than 20 million songs.
Both the Sonos Playbar and the Sonos Play:3 speaker will be controlled through the iPad mini and will also be compatible with other tablets and smartphones.
“Imperial PLAY brings an unrivalled level of lifestyle technology to every apartment that makes apartment living clutter free.”
“All your entertainment devices are integrated into a central smartphone or tablet and customized to suit your lifestyle, eliminating the need for multiple remote controls,” says Jessop.
The 96 apartments will range from one, two and three-bedroom apartments and include 10 sub penthouses.
<img alt="imperialapril2four" height="231" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/imperialapril2four.jpg">
One bedrooms range in size from 51 square metres to 58 internally and start from $375,000.
Two-bedroom apartments range in price from $539,000 to $644,000 and range in size from 86 square metres to 96 square metres.
Three bedroom apartments range in price from $795,000 to $853,000 and the ten penthouses range in price from $879,000 to $1,255,000.
AXF had a preview night three weeks ago and currently have 20 apartments on reserve.
Jessop says one purchaser is looking at combining two and a half apartments, while another three potential buyers are wanting to combine two apartments.
"Imperial PLAY is definitely the wow factor," says Jessop.
 
 
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Imperial Doncaster offers iPad and sound technology for apartment owners

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Rick Jamieson, the founder of party supply and events company Harry The Hirer, has listed his 60-hectare Bellarine estate, with interest from $12 million.
Jamieson is also a horse breeder and is famous for selling Black Caviar as a yearling for $210,000 after he had concerns for her front legs.
Jamieson bought the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-bellarine-113218667">Spray Farm estate</a> in 2010 for $7.05 million from Scothman’s Hill Vineyard and Winery owners the Browne family.
The 1851 homestead on <a target="_blank" href="/news">Portarlington</a> Road was restored by the Browne family in 1998 and long operated as a high-end function centre, witnessing the marriage of Cathy Freeman.
Jamieson converted the historic farm and vineyard into a private residence after a multi-million-dollar refurbishment.
Spray Farm boasts seven bedrooms, six bathrooms and features high ceilings with detailed cornices, ceilings roses and timber floors.
The stables have been converted into four guest suites.
The architecturally designed gardens are greeted with a sandstone deck, which offers panoramic views over the Bellarine Penisula.
Spray Farm has been listed for private sale through Gerald Delany and Nicole Gleeson from Kay and Burton.
The agents say given Spray Farms rare commodity, it is difficult to put an exact price on the property as there really are no comparables.
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Harry the Hirer founder Rick Jamieson lists Bellarine estate

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The southeastern suburbs of Melbourne – particularly Glen Waverley and Mount Waverley – are proving to be hotspots with Chinese buyers looking to further their children’s education and invest in small businesses.
Glen Waverley, 19 kilometres southeast of Melbourne CBD, is a popular spot for Chinese buyers –  both Australian residents and offshore –  wanting to move into the Monash school zone, which boasts a vast number of primary and secondary schools.
Residents of Chinese descent account for almost a quarter of the southeastern suburb population (10,477 people of the 39,204 population according to the 2011 census).
The average house price in Glen Waverley is $720,000, and families account for 79% of households.
A spokesperson for Ray White Glen Waverley says the majority of Chinese home owners buy in Glen Waverley for education, and secondly for the shopping and transportation.
Where a child can attend school is determined by his or her primary and permanent place of residence – upon enrolling, proof of residence must be shown.
If a student lives in a school zone, a place is reserved for him or her at the schools allocated to that zone.
A student can apply for schools in other zones, but being accepted depends on the availability of places at the chosen school, with those within the zone given first preference.
Other factors such as distance, curriculum, social and family links, transport and location convenience are all considered by the school.
<a href="/news">Glen Waverley</a> also is home to further education institutions such as Homesglen TAFE, and not far away is Box Hill TAFE.
A <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-glen+waverley-113081571" target="_blank">three-bedroom, two-bathroom home</a> on Delmore Crescent (pictured below) recently sold at auction for $765,500.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/schoolsmarch27one.jpg" width="470" height="350" alt="schoolsmarch27one">
Situated on a 680-square-metre lot, it is within walking distance to public transport and located close to Glendal Primary, St Christopher’s Primary, Wesley College and Mount Waverley Secondary School.
It was listed by Tony Levoli from Barry Plant Monash.
 
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The neighbouring suburb <a href="/news">Mount Waverley</a> is also popular with Chinese buyers, with 5,030 residents of Chinese descent within the 32,076 population, according to the 2011 census.
The median house price in Mount Waverley is $725,500 and family households account for almost 74%.
A five-bedroom, two-bathroom home on Catherine Avenue (pictured below) sold on March 2 for $731,000.
<img alt="schoolsmarch27two" height="272" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/schoolsmarch27two.jpg">
Situated on a 672-square-metre lot, the sale was closed by Buxton real estate Oakleigh.
Last year Property Observer <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/mount-waverley-iga-with-lucky-88-dollar-bids-sells-for-%24600000-above-the-reserve/2012062855319">reported</a> on a free-standing Ritchies IGA in Mount Waverley that sold to an Asian Melbourne-based buyer for nearly $700,000 above the reserve.
The supermarket attracted more than 23 enquiries from offshore Asian buyers prior to its auction date.
Many of the bids included the number 88 – the Asian symbol of good fortune and good luck.
The supermarket had a $6.5 million reserve and eventually sold for $7.19 million.
“Locally based Asian investors generally like to buy commercial property investment with a value of up to $5 million,” says Mark Wizel from CBRE.
“Small Asian investors [who live around the eastern suburbs] tend to buy retail properties that have solid performing tenants.”
“There is little doubt that the Chinese people feel comfortable in Melbourne and have a great understanding of the way the local market works,” says Wizel.
For more on the allure of Australian property to Asian buyers, <a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-allure-for-asian-residential-property-investment">download our free eBook. </a>The eBook is also available for<a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/australias-allure-for-asian-residential-property-investment-free-ebook"> free download in Chinese.</a>
Photo courtesy of ClarkeHopkinsClarke.
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Schools draw Chinese buyers to Melbourne’s southeast

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/consolidated-properties">Consolidated Properties Group</a> (CPG) is approaching the launch of its latest Brisbane riverfront development, Castile, on the dress circle Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

VIP buyers are now being engaged, with a full public sales launch coming later this year.

Positioned as the final opportunity to secure a new absolute riverfront residence on the East bank of Newstead, Teneriffe or New Farm, Castile at 47 Skyring Terrace has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> as a timeless addition to the Brisbane skyline.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=371113]

The name Castile draws on themes of permanence, sophistication and legacy, reflecting a broader vision centred on enduring architecture and timelessness in the rarest of riverfront positions.&nbsp;

CPG Chairman and CEO Don O’Rorke said the project had been envisioned as a future Brisbane icon.&nbsp;

“With 47 metres of direct river frontage and never to be built out views, 47 Skyring Terrace is the definitive address on the Brisbane River,” O’Rorke said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=371114]

“Rather than following trend-based apartment design, Castile draws inspiration from Brisbane’s great heritage buildings, reinterpreting classical architecture into a contemporary riverfront landmark designed to stand proudly for the next 100 years,” he said.&nbsp;

The approved development will comprise 227 apartments across a 25-storey tower alongside a boutique six-storey riverfront building of just 12 residences.&nbsp;

Construction is scheduled to commence in September 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150489]

Joel Robinson

CPG unveils Castile Newstead ahead of upcoming sales launch

Australia’s online shopping habits have shifted dramatically over the last decade. As eCommerce volumes surged, so too did the frustrations that came with traditional parcel delivery: missed deliveries, long Post Office queues, parcel theft and the challenge of being home during business hours.

Australia Post’s Parcel Lockers emerged as one of the more practical responses to that changing consumer behaviour.

What started as a relatively niche delivery option has evolved into a nationwide network of more than 1,400 self-service Parcel Lockers positioned at train stations, shopping centres, supermarkets and Post Offices across the country. The system allows Australians to send, collect and return parcels 24 hours a day, fundamentally changing how many people interact with deliveries.

The appeal is relatively straightforward: flexibility.

Instead of waiting at home for a delivery driver or rushing to a Post Office before closing time, users can direct eligible parcels to a Parcel Locker location of their choice. Once the parcel arrives, Australia Post sends a notification with a collection code or QR access through the AusPost app, allowing customers to retrieve their package at any time within the collection window.

For apartment residents in particular, the system has become increasingly valuable.

Higher-density living has created logistical challenges around deliveries, especially in buildings without concierge services or secure parcel rooms. Missed deliveries are common, while parcel theft has become an increasing concern as online shopping volumes continue to rise.

Australia Post itself has repeatedly highlighted the growing issue of “porch pirates” during peak shopping periods, encouraging customers to use Parcel Lockers as a safer alternative to unattended home deliveries.

That security aspect is one of the key reasons the Australia Post Parcel Locker network has grown so rapidly.

Parcel Lockers are positioned as secure, monitored collection points that reduce the risk of theft while also improving delivery efficiency for Australia Post. Instead of multiple redelivery attempts, parcels can be consolidated into a single secure destination.

The Parcel Lockers themselves are free to use through a MyPost account and support a range of parcel sizes up to 16 kilograms and dimensions of approximately 35 x 44 x 61 centimetres.

Beyond receiving parcels, the system has increasingly become integrated into the broader eCommerce ecosystem.

Customers can now use Parcel Lockers to return online purchases, while retailers have embraced the model as a way to improve delivery success rates and reduce friction in the shopping process. Australia Post has actively expanded partnerships with major retailers and promoted Parcel Lockers as part of a broader out-of-home strategy.

The timing of that expansion aligns with broader changes in Australian shopping behaviour.

The acceleration of online retail during and after the pandemic placed enormous pressure on delivery infrastructure. Parcel volumes reached record highs, particularly during Black Friday and Christmas periods, with Australia Post delivering more than 100 million parcels during peak festive seasons.

That growth forced logistics providers to rethink the “last mile” of delivery, widely regarded as the most expensive and operationally difficult stage of the process.

Parcel Locker systems have increasingly been viewed as part of the long-term solution.

The concept itself is not unique to Australia. Parcel Locker networks have become common globally, particularly across Europe and Asia, where dense urban environments and apartment living create similar logistical challenges. But Australia’s geography and suburban sprawl made adoption slower initially.

Now, however, the convenience factor is driving mainstream usage.

For commuters, Parcel Lockers near train stations allow parcels to be collected on the way home from work. For apartment dwellers, they remove the uncertainty around access and missed deliveries.

The rise of the AusPost app has also streamlined the experience, centralising notifications, tracking and Parcel Locker access into a single platform. Australia Post has increasingly pushed customers toward app-based delivery management, partly as a way to combat phishing scams and fake delivery notifications, which have become more sophisticated in recent years.

The Parcel Locker model is also beginning to influence property development itself.

Parcel management has become a growing consideration in apartment building design, particularly as online shopping becomes embedded in everyday life. Many new residential developments are now incorporating dedicated parcel rooms or Parcel Locker systems into foyers and communal spaces.

For developers, parcel management is increasingly viewed as part of the broader resident amenity offering, alongside gyms, wellness spaces and communal work areas.

That reflects a wider evolution in how residential buildings are designed.

Apartment buyers are placing greater emphasis on convenience, security and operational functionality, particularly in higher-density urban environments. Parcel delivery, once considered a minor operational detail, has become an increasingly important part of that equation.

Australia Post’s Parcel Locker network sits at the centre of that behavioural shift.

What began as a simple alternative delivery option has evolved into a key piece of infrastructure supporting Australia’s growing eCommerce economy and changing urban lifestyles.

And as online shopping continues to expand, the role of Parcel Lockers is likely to become even more embedded in how Australians live, shop and receive goods.

How Australia Post Parcel Lockers changed parcel delivery convenience in Australia

Perth’s new apartment market recorded its strongest quarter of sales since Q4 2021, with 412 apartments sold in Q1 2026 and a record quarterly sold value of $537 million, according to Urbis’ latest Apartment Essentials results.

Urbis said the March quarter result reflects strong, highly product‑specific demand across both ends of the market, from more attainable projects delivering at scale, through to premium stock being absorbed by equity‑rich downsizers.&nbsp;

David Cresp, Partner at Urbis, said the key story in Perth is not demand, it is the market’s ability to convert demand into delivered housing.&nbsp;

“This is the strongest sales quarter since Q4 2021, and it reinforces that demand in Perth is real and it’s local,” David Cresp said. “But the task now is delivery, turning that demand into projects that can actually be built and completed.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110291 project_image_fid=302785]

<h2>Affordable product leads, premium demand remains resilient</h2>

Sales in Q1 were led by more affordable projects, with The Boulevard (SKS Group) recording 115 sales in the quarter, the presentation noting this is only the second time a single project has surpassed 100 quarterly sales. The project was able to offer more affordable housing product right next to a train station.&nbsp;

Palmyra West (Finbar) also delivered strong results with 28 sales in Q1, following 84 sales in Q4, with an average price of under $800,000, underscoring depth of demand for well‑located, attainable new stock.&nbsp;

At the premium end, Urbis said downsizer demand is continuing, with the results highlighting Romeo (Applecross, Finbar) recording 75 sales and reaching almost 50% sold in one quarter.

Jual (Shenton Park, Celsius Property) also posted a strong quarter with 28 sales, reaching 39% sold in one quarter.

Urbis noted that Perth apartment demand is not speculative, not investor‑led, and not uniform, describing it as localised, often equity‑driven and highly product‑specific, a pattern reflected in the polarisation between strong “attainable” performers and premium downsizer product.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148957 project_image_fid=364102]

<h2>Prices underpinned by costs, and the delivery risk is growing</h2>

Urbis said pricing pressure is cost not demand‑driven: construction costs and delivery risk are now a central constraint, with the results noting build costs remain elevated and volatile, and that energy, fuel and labour uncertainty weigh on feasibility.

David Cresp said a growing challenge for private Build‑to‑Sell developers is simply securing a builder in the current environment.

“Developers are really feeling the pressure from a building market that was operating at capacity and securing a builder is challenging,” David Cresp said, adding that even where a builder can be secured, “trying to get to the price that makes the development financially viable is incredibly challenging in the current market.”&nbsp;

Urbis’ broader WA commentary also notes that industry remains at or above capacity with lot and housing creation, and that many builders are limiting new sales to manage stretched workforces and fixed‑price contract pressures, conditions that flow directly into apartment feasibility and delivery timing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108869 project_image_fid=317905]

<h2>Supply: improving later, but still constrained, and Perth lags eastern benchmarks</h2>

While near‑term supply remains constrained, Urbis’ forecast shows completions lifting “Supply is forecast to be back above 1,500 apartments per annum for the first time since 2019”, with 1,775 completions forecast for 2026, and volumes remaining above that level over the following years.&nbsp;

Looking further ahead, completions are forecast to reach 2,500 in 2028, with the report noting 32% of that total is social/affordable, reflecting the role of government‑supported delivery in rebuilding the pipeline.&nbsp;

However, Urbis said Perth remains behind comparable markets on pipeline scale. In a national comparison of projects under construction, the report shows under construction Perth Build‑to‑Sell (BTS) at 3,446 apartments versus the Gold Coast at 7,922. Mr Cresp said “The challenge for Perth is how to we grow the delivery pipeline”.

Urbis’ conclusion is that Perth’s market is increasingly defined by product discipline and delivery certainty, with the research identifying “delivery certainty is key” and calling out builder risk and procurement models as core success factors, alongside “timing and staging”.&nbsp;

Perth apartment sales hit strongest pace since late 2021 as builder capacity tightens

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sammut-developments">Sammut Group</a> has secured development approval for its latest Brisbane apartment project, marking the Sydney developer’s next step in expanding its Queensland pipeline following the success of its debut Gold Coast development, Coast.

The approved project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/44-glen-road-toowong-qld-4066">44 Glen Road, </a><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> will deliver a 15-storey riverfront apartment building with 42 residences, significantly increasing the scale of the site’s previous approval for a smaller luxury scheme. Designed by Bureau^proberts, the development will comprise a mix of predominantly four-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments positioned to maximise Brisbane River and city views.

Sammut Director Julian Sammut said the group had been actively searching Brisbane for several years before identifying Toowong as the right fit.

“Brisbane was the right step for Sammut,” Sammut said.

“With the success of Coast we thought we should definitely look to do more in Queensland alone. We then pushed up to look at Brisbane. We've been looking for I'd say two to three years actually and it was hard to find the right location.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.14%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dYAVIL7qdcGA8ojvkslSrLjczXFejSSx" />

Sammut said suburbs including New Farm and Teneriffe were considered before the group ultimately focused on Toowong due to its strong downsizer demographic and limited supply of developable riverfront land.

The site was acquired off-market after what Sammut described as a lengthy negotiation and planning process, with the developer pursuing an uplift to the original approval.

“We are DA approved now which is very exciting,” Sammut said.

“We've had our change approval come through and we've obviously doubled the height, 15 storeys plus rooftop. We've got 42 amazing apartments that are going to be coming to market soon.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ohkRkY0dIZlqdfME2EZePsCQavRiBadE" />

Bureau^proberts said the design responds to Toowong’s evolving urban character, balancing contemporary apartment living with the area’s established residential identity.

“A place where traditional Queensland living has taken place for centuries; Toowong is seeing a shift of contemporary influence, commercial and retail hubs mixed with well-considered residential offerings – all the while maintaining its character and charm,” the architect noted in planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council.

The architecture practice said the project’s form was shaped by its riverfront setting, flood considerations, neighbouring building scales, and view corridors.

“They said the mix of four and two-bedroom apartments capture the ‘fundamental qualities of Queenslander living,’ translated into the context of a contemporary subtropical building.”

The development sits just off Coronation Drive within walking distance of Toowong’s retail precinct and the upgraded Regatta ferry terminal, while also benefiting from proximity to the incoming green bridge connection to West End. Sammut said the accessibility and amenity offering were central to the site’s appeal.

The approval adds to growing residential activity along the Toowong riverfront, joining nearby projects including Consolidated Properties’ Monarch Residences and Spyre Group’s ARC Residences.

Sammut secures approval for debut Brisbane apartment development in Toowong

Developer Lanevick is heading back into Sydney’s apartment market after focusing more heavily on the luxury townhouse and terrace sector in recent years.

Lanevick, founded and directed by Steve Maroun, is expecting to receive approval in the coming months for a new apartment development in Gladesville, with the aim to launch it to the market later this year.

The 51-apartment project, designed by Studio Johnston, will comprise a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments positioned toward the Hunters Hill downsizer market.

“Traditionally it’s been difficult for people in that market to downsize because there just hasn’t been the right product available,” Maroun said.

“We’re targeting buyers who might have 30 to 40 per cent of their house value sitting in the bank after downsizing.

“They still want good spacious entertaining areas, they still want quality design, but they also want flexibility and the ability to enjoy life a bit more after working hard for a long time.”

The project sits near Boronia Park and within close proximity to the Parramatta River foreshore, an area Maroun says offers more of a Hunters Hill lifestyle than a traditional apartment precinct.

“From a lifestyle perspective, it’s really more Hunters Hill than Gladesville,” Maroun said. “You’re close to the foreshore, close to parklands, and still connected back into the village precinct.”

From level four and above, apartments will capture water views&nbsp;toward Sydney Harbour. Communal amenity will include rooftop entertaining areas, wellness spaces, and a gym tailored toward owner-occupier buyers.

“We’ve really designed these apartments around that buyer coming from the Hunters Hill LGA and what they’re actually looking for in their next chapter.”

The proposed development has also been designed to respond to the changing character of the broader Gladesville town centre, where a growing number of mixed-use and residential proposals are expected to emerge over the coming years.

“Gladesville presented a rare opportunity to deliver a genuinely design-led residential project within an evolving lifestyle precinct, just moments from the growing Gladesville town centre, and we’ve approached the project with a strong focus on architecture, liveability and long-term community value,” Maroun said.

Maroun said Lanevick saw a first-mover advantage within the precinct as planning controls continue to evolve to accommodate greater housing density.

“We think there’s a real opportunity there that hasn’t really been serviced properly yet,” he said.

“There’s going to be a broader evolution of the whole Gladesville village precinct over time, particularly with more activation and mixed-use outcomes.”

The Venus Street proposal will include a commercial and retail component at ground level designed to contribute to that evolving streetscape activation.

“A big part of the thinking was how do you activate that area properly and create more vibrancy and amenity, which is what Hunters Hill has been looking for,” Maroun said.

Lanevick’s focus since 2020 has largely been on smaller-scale luxury townhouse and terrace developments. The developer recently completed Royale Randwick, also designed by Studio Johnston, where prices reached $3.65 million. The project was featured in the UDIA NSW 2026 Professional Development Prospectus and was also named a finalist for Development of the Year.

&nbsp;

Nicola Trotman

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